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Doctors’ Medical Advice on Drinking Alcohol

Anyone who consumes alcoholic beverages should know this important
fact:

A glass of wine, a bottle of beer, and a shot of whiskey or other
distilled spirits all contain equivalent amounts of alcohol and
they are the same to a Breathalyzer. A standard drink is:

A 12-ounce bottle or can of regular beer

A 5-ounce glass of wine

A one and 1/2 ounce drink of 80 proof distilled spirits (either
straight or in a mixed drink.

Knowing about this alcohol equivalence can help people drink sensibly
and in moderation. In the words of the American Dietetic Association,
“Knowing the facts of beverage alcohol equivalence is a crucial
aspect of responsible drinking.” 1
For example, people won’t be fooled by the myth that drinking
“hard liquor” leads more quickly to intoxication than
other alcoholic beverages.

In a recent poll of physicians, 95% said it is important that people
understand the alcohol equivalence of standard drinks and 98% believe
it important for doctors to communicate this and other information
about alcohol consumption.

The research was conducted by the American Medical Women’s
Association, the oldest and largest multispecialty association of
women physicians in the world.

Dr. Raymond Scaletter, former Chairman of the American Medical
Association says “Incorporating standard drink information
into routine examinations will help to reinforce moderation in those
who drink and to identify problems associated with alcohol abuse.”
The medical leader says that it’s important for doctors to
“reinforce moderate and responsible drinking.” 2